Egusi seed supplier in Nigeria
Egusi seed supplier in Nigeria
the seeds within oval, reddish fruit are used in a myriad of dishes like traditional soups and stews throughout western Africa.
Egusi melon seeds, native and popular in West Africa for its high nutritional content and delicious flavor as well — used to prepare their version of Egusi soup. These seeds, originally grown in Africa, come from a species of melon which is a part of the Cucurbitaceae family that includes cucumbers, courgettes and gourd. In places with multiple names that have their origin in Western Africa, Nigeria (Egusi), Ghana/Cameroon (Agushi) pumpkin/melon seed is really essential to local dishes and people over there enjoy it for its versatility as well health benefit reasons.
From being the edible seeds of a ubiquitous melon plant, to their ancient roots or how much nutrition they contain and is it just in Nigeria egusi is eaten, well as all about its properties (health benefits) etc., even ways you can easily introduce them into your daily diet this post will cover everything relating these wonderfull food item called Egusi Melons.
Introduction to Egusi Melon SeedsмотрMeloning
The tropical fruit-bearing plant comes from the watermelon family, Colocynthis citrullus or just “egusi melon” as it is known locally in its native Western African region. Most melons are grown for their flesh, but the fruit of egusi contains large seeds that contain edible kernels rich in oil. These seeds are called oilseed melons because of their high oil and protein content, they also have that “nutty” flavor profile unique to these particular types.
These egusi melons are found in West Africa, where they grow well in hot environments and can survive arid or semi-arid agricultural conditions. The plant is very hardy and resistant to drought, so egusi melons are cultivated using traditional agricultural methods. This hardy crop supports food security by thriving in arid regions and it can be harvested even under relatively adverse conditions.
Egusi Melon Seeds Nutritional Profile
Egusi melon seeds have such an impressive nutritional profile. What Do They Contain (Nutrition Facts)
Protein: Egusi seeds are especially high in protein, with 30-35% of the nutritional makeup being made up by these essential proteins. So they are a great plant-based source of protein, which is very welcome if you cook for vegetarians and vegans.
John-glo is also loaded with healthy fats which are important for brain health, skin tone and hormone regulation especially omega-6 fatty acids. Since egusi contains high levels of oil — usually around 50 percent, suffice to say it is energy-heavy and gives sustained power throughout the day.
• Vitamins and Minerals: Egusi seeds contain important vitamins like the B-complex, which includes vitamin B1 (Thiamine), essential for our cellular energy production processes as well nerve function. They contain magnesium, potassium, iron and zinc which support bone health, muscle function as well immune*
• Antioxidants: The seeds are rich in antioxidants, mainly phenolic compounds that can help to reduce oxidative stress and potentially decrease the risks of cardiovascular diseases as well some types of cancer.
With this great nutrient profile, egusi melon seeds can be regarded as superfood and are highly beneficial for different types of health such as heart health to muscle building including the exhaustive list.
Cooking With Egusi Melon Seeds
Egusi melon seeds are particularly prized in West African cuisine for their ability to enrich flavors and thicken recipes. The seeds are commonly prepared in a curry paste or powder, making them useful for many culinary dishes. Egusi melon seeds are used in cooking in various ways, below is a list of the most common:
Egusi Soup: Egusi seeds are perhaps most commonly used in the beloved dish, Egusi Soup. This thick, tasty stew is common in Nigerian, Ghanaian and Cameroonian culinary traditions made from a mixture of ground egusi seeds,vegetables (leafy greens), meat/fish spices. The milled seeds act as a thickener in the soup and contribute an earthy, nutty tone. A meal of egusi soup can be served with fufu, pounded yam or rice making the dish filling and rich in minerals.
Egusi Sauce: Much like the broth, egusi sauce is a little bit tot and it includes ground dryed melon seed in addition to seasoning just-palm oil spread over- served with steamed yam or barbecue. It’s not meant to be soupy, but rather like a sauce or relish and is appreciated for its delicious umami depth with richness.
Egusi seeds are great as a baking and Far-East snack — roasted or toasted such as pumpkin and sunflower. Their nutrient-rich profile and mild, nutty taste make them a popular addition to breads, muffins, and cakes.
Aside from pureeing egusi seeds to eat as it is, or use in soups and stews that call for smooth texture, you can throw them in your blender with other ingredients like veggies/fuits/juice/ yogurt/protein powder/milk (to offset the bitter taste), honey etc Here are a few examples- Smoothies & Protein Shakes : Because they contain some protein and healthy fat,egusi seeds would be great added to any of these. Roasted soybeans can be turned into powder, which you can then stir through your drinks. You get 50% protein and plenty of energy.boosting stuff that is pure goodness!
Egusi Melon Seeds Health Benefits
There are several health benefits associated with egusi melon seeds which makes them great for a healthy diet. Following are some of the main advantages:
Heart Health: Egusi seeds are rich in omega-6 fatty acids, a healthy fat known to support cardiovascular wellness.
Research shows these fats can decrease LDL (Bad cholesterol) and potentially increase HDL (Good Cholesterol), which may result in a risk reduction for cardiovascular diseases.
Protein content same to that of avocados When sprinkled directly in dishes, they are rich with proteins which make them a good source of energy for people on suite vegan and plant based diet. Fats are important for muscle building, immunity and enzyme production while egusi seeds add mileage to any protein diet.
Dietary fiber is an outstanding agent for digestion; it significantly improves your digestive tract and curbs constipation. The fiber also helps for the weight management-fullness-feeling that discourages overeating.
Egusi seeds are a natural source of antioxidants which is beneficial for fighting free radicals and reducing oxidative stress. Its intake can help prevent cell damage and lower the risk of chronic diseases, including cancer and diabetes.
Supports Immune Function: Egusi seeds are a good source of zinc, iron and magnesium which support the immune system by helping in white blood cell production and reducing inflammation. One of the very important nutrients for immune response is zinc, and these seeds contain plenty.
Benefits Of Egusi Melon Seeds
Experiencing Fufu dishes, using pounded Egusi seeds is more than just a meal but carries cultural branding in West African cultures and often part of family culture background for celebrating regional occasions. For example:
• Community and Family Gatherings: A popular dish at family get-togethers and festivities is egusi; particularly, egusi soup. Egusi dishes are usually a family affair with each member of the family taking part so all could eat and relish.
Symbol of Hospitality: Offering egusi dishes to guests is a sign of hospitality and honor. …in some culture, egusi dishes are a sign of care on how you share food.
• Tradiotional and Ritualistic Utilisation: Some communities also make use of egusi seeds in traditional medicine and ritual purposes. These oily little seeds, high in nutrient density are sometimes used ceremonially to represent abundance and fecundity.
Ways to Add Egusi Melon Seeds To Your Diet
Now you can follow this simple and beneficial method to get well-cooked egusi melon seeds in your meal. Here are some ideas:
Salads sprinkle: you can add a crunchy toasted egusi seeds as well as give additional protein to your vegan salads. Just lightly roast the seeds and throw it on top of your favourite greens for some added crunch!
To Soups And Stews: You can add in ground egusi to just about any soup or stew as a thickener and taste enhancer. The creaminess and slightly nutty taste is quite versatile to many flavors, spicy or savory alike.
Add to Smoothies: Ground egusi seeds would also have a creamy consistency and provide some protein in smoothies. Add a tablespoon of ground seeds to your smoothie for added benefits.
Baking (as a Nut Substitute): Ground melon nut can replace nuts in baking for those allergic to them. They provide a parallel texture and taste, making them an excellent ingredient for muffins breads cookies.
Egusi Butter: Just like peanuts, grind the seeds with some oil to create a spread that is similar in consistency to peanut or almond butter. It is a wonderful spread for toast or crackers and can also be used in sauces, dressings.
Storage of Egusi melon Seeds
Keeping egusi melon seeds in good condition is key to maintaining their nutritional value and freshness. Here are some tips:
Cool, Dry Place — Store the seeds in an airtight container and keep it at a cool place away from sunlight. Which Protects the oil present in seeds from spoiling.
• More Shelve Life: You can store your egusi seed longer by refrigerated it. This will keeps them at their peak for a few months, holding on to the flavor and value in nutrition.
• Freezing — you can also store this seed in the freezer especially when there is large quantity of them. Freezing them in airtight freezer bags allows for storage up to a year.
Egusi Melon Seeds in the Future: Economics and Agricultural Meaning
The trend for superfoods has opened up the world’s tastiest and most intriguing grains, cereals and legumes, including this recipe using egusi melon seeds from West Africa. With their high protein, good fats and special taste egusi seeds are becoming increasingly important in international health food and cuisine. This could be good news for West African farmers and farming economy as demand grows.
• Economic Development in Local Communities: More demand for egusi seeds would create an economic boom for these communities, providing farmers with new revenue opportunities to produce and sell a larger diversity of crops.
• Sustained Agriculture: Egusi melons are drought-tolerant, making them ideal for cultivation in water-scarce regions. Planting more egusi is an argument for sustainable agriculture because it can help conserve water, since planting no longer requires irrigation.
• Preservation of Cultural Heritage: Improve female knowledge about egusi seeds around the world and prevent them from neglecting traditional cooking practice in West Africa, which could lead to pride sense such as cultural heritage awareness.
Click here to order from us.